Multi-flow filtration system

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is multi-flow filter cartridge assembly that includes an elongated housing that has axially opposed proximal and distal ends and defines an interior cavity and first, second and third flow paths which extend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end. The cartridge assembly also includes first, second and third filter elements. The first filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the first flow path from a first inlet port to a first outlet port. The second filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. Lastly, the third filter element is also disposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the third flow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port. The first flow path is isolated from the second and third flow paths and the second flow path is isolated from the third flow path.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims the benefit of priorityto U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/577,188, filed Oct. 11, 2009 andissued as U.S. Pat. No. 7,976,598 on Jul. 12, 2011, which in turn is acontinuation of and claims the benefit of priority to PCT applicationserial number PCT/US2009/060298, filed Oct. 10, 2009, which in turnclaims the benefit of priority to U.S. Patent Application Ser. No.61/195,898, filed Oct. 10, 2008. Each of the aforementioned applicationsis incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is directed to a filtration system for use in, forexample, healthcare applications, and more particularly to a filtrationsystem that includes a filter cartridge assembly having a plurality ofdistinct fluid flow paths and filter chambers, and still moreparticularly to, a filtration system that includes a tri-flow filtercartridge assembly and a controller which are adapted and configured forfiltering or conditioning three independent fluid sources.

2. Background of the Related Art

Many applications, such as healthcare, residential, or industrialapplications, require a fluid or gas source to be filtered prior to use.For example, in laparoscopic procedures the abdominal cavity of thepatient is filled or insufflated with a pressurized fluid, such ascarbon dioxide gas, to create what is referred to as pneumoperitoneum.The carbon dioxide gas must be filtered prior to its being supplied tothe patient's abdominal cavity.

Still further, many applications require the filtration of more than onefluid source. For example, International Patent Application No.PCT/US07/88017 which was filed on Dec. 18, 2007 and published as WO2008/077080 and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety,discloses a system for surgical insufflation and gas recirculation to beused in laparoscopic procedures that utilizes three independent fluidstreams, which are filtered during use. FIGS. 14 and 15 of WO2008/077080, disclose a representative system for surgical insufflationand gas recirculation that includes, among other elements, a controlunit in connection with a surgical insufflator and a surgical trocar. Inthe disclosed system, three fluid conduits connect the trocar to thecontrol unit. A separate filter element is provided in each of the threeflow paths extending between the control unit and the trocar. The use ofthree separate filter elements with three filter housings is cumbersomeand not desirable in an operating room setting where space is at apremium. Moreover, although the filter elements appear to be identical,in fact, the size and type of filter cartridge used will vary dependingon the desired flow properties and conditioning requirements for eachflow path. Therefore, there is a possibility that during maintenanceprocedures, the filter cartridges could be mixed up and improperlyplaced in wrong housing and flow path. Additionally, when the filtersneed to be replaced, which in a laparoscopic procedure will be beforeeach surgery, each filter cartridge must be separately removed fromwithin its housing and replaced, which adds to the scope of themaintenance efforts.

There is a need therefore, for a filter cartridge assembly for use inapplications such as laparoscopic surgery that is adapted and configuredfor filtering three independent fluid sources. Additionally, there isalso a need for a filtration system that can be used in a surgicalenvironment which is compact and simple to use and maintain.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to a filter cartridge assembly thatincludes, inter alia, an elongated housing that has axially opposedproximal and distal ends and defines an interior cavity and first,second and third flow paths which extend from the proximal end of thehousing to the distal end.

The cartridge assembly also includes first, second and third filterelements. The first filter element is disposed within the interiorcavity of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the first flowpath from a first inlet port to a first outlet port. The second filterelement is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing andconditions fluid that traverses the second flow path from a second inletport to a second outlet port. Lastly, the third filter element is alsodisposed within the interior cavity of the housing and conditions fluidthat traverses the third flow path from a third inlet port to a thirdoutlet port. The first flow path is isolated from the second and thirdflow paths and the second flow path is isolated from the third flowpath.

Preferably, the proximal end of the housing includes a connectorelement. In certain embodiments of the present invention, the connectorelement includes the first inlet port and the second and third outletports.

It is envisioned that the housing includes a pair of coaxiallypositioned peripheral walls. In certain constructions, the peripheralwalls of the housing are integrally molded. In alternativeconstructions, the inner peripheral wall is formed using a cylindricalinner housing element positioned within the interior cavity of thehousing. It is envisioned that in such constructions a portion of thesecond and third flow paths extend in a gap defined between theperipheral walls of the housing.

It is presently preferred that the first filter element is a radiallypleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the first flow path bytraversing in a radially inward direction through the first filterelement. Moreover, it is also envisioned that the second filter elementis radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the second flowpath by traversing in a radially outward direction through the secondfilter element. Lastly, in preferred embodiments of the presentinvention, the third filter element is a disc filter and fluid isconditioned in the second flow path by traversing axially through thethird filter element.

In certain constructions of the presently disclosed filter cartridgeassembly, the housing further includes a second inner housing elementpositioned within the interior cavity of the housing and forming asecond filter chamber for the second filter element. Still further, itis envisioned that in an embodiment of the present invention, thehousing includes two longitudinal ribs which define two longitudinalchannels in the interior cavity of the housing and the second flow pathextends through one of the channels and the third flow path extendsthough the other channel.

Preferably, the first outlet port, the second inlet port and third inletport are located at the distal end of the housing. Still further, it isenvisioned that the first outlet port, the second inlet port and thethird inlet port can be coaxially arranged.

The present invention is also directed to a filter cartridge assemblythat includes, inter alia, an elongated housing that has axially opposedproximal and distal ends. The housing defines first, second and thirdfilter chambers and first, second and third flow paths which extend fromthe proximal end of the housing to the distal end. A first filterelement is disposed within the first filter chamber of the housing andconditions fluid that traverses the first flow path from a first inletport to a first outlet port. A second filter element is disposed withinthe second filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid thattraverses the second flow path from a second inlet port to a secondoutlet port. A third filter element is disposed within the third filterchamber of the housing and conditions fluid that traverses the thirdflow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port. The cartridgeassembly is constructed such that the first flow path is isolated fromthe second and third flow paths and the second flow path is isolatedfrom the third flow path.

The present invention is also directed to a filter cartridge assemblythat includes, among other elements, an elongated housing that has acentral axis and axially opposed proximal and distal ends. The housingdefines a plurality of axially spaced apart filter chambers and aplurality of flow paths which extend from the proximal end of thehousing to the distal end. The plurality of flow paths are each isolatedfrom one another. The filter cartridge also includes a plurality offilter elements, and one of the plurality of filter elements is disposedwithin each of the plurality of filter chambers.

In a preferred embodiment, the housing defines three filter chambers andthree flow paths. Still further, in such an embodiment it is envisionedthat the plurality of filter elements includes a first filter element, asecond filter element and a third filter element. The first filterelement is disposed within the first filter chamber of the housing andconditions fluid traversing the first flow path from a first inlet portto a first outlet port. The second filter element is disposed within thesecond filter chamber of the housing and conditions fluid traversing thesecond flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. Thethird filter element is disposed within the third filter chamber of thehousing and conditions fluid traversing the third flow path from a thirdinlet port to a third outlet port.

The present invention is also directed to a filtration system forconditioning fluid received from three distinct fluid sources, thefiltration system including, inter alia, a controller, a socket assemblyand a filter cartridge assembly. The controller includes means forregulating and monitoring fluid flow in the filtration system anddefines an elongated receptacle. The socket assembly is positioned atleast partially within an elongated receptacle defined by the controllerand includes a locking element. The filter cartridge assembly isinserted into the socket assembly and is secured in fluid communicationwith the controller by the locking element.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the locking elementof the socket assembly includes a cam mechanism for engaging one or morelugs extending from an exterior surface of the filter cartridgeassembly.

It is presently envisioned that the filter cartridge assembly includesan elongated housing and first, second and third filter elements. Theelongated housing has axially opposed proximal and distal ends anddefines an interior cavity and first, second and third flow paths whichextend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end. The firstfilter element is disposed within the interior cavity of the housing andconditions fluid traversing the first flow path from a first inlet portto a first outlet port. The second filter element is disposed within theinterior cavity of the housing and conditions fluid traversing thesecond flow path from a second inlet port to a second outlet port. Thethird filter element is disposed within the interior cavity of thehousing and conditions fluid traversing the third flow path from a thirdinlet port to a third outlet port. The first flow path is isolated fromthe second and third flow paths and the second flow path is isolatedfrom the third flow path.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

So that those having ordinary skill in the art will better understandthe device and methods of the subject invention, embodiments thereofwill be described below with reference to the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1A is a side elevational view of a filter cartridge assemblyconstructed in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 1B provides elevational view of the proximal end of the filtercartridge assembly of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge assemblyof FIG. 1A shown with parts separated for ease of illustration;

FIGS. 3A and 3B provide elevational view and cross-sectional views,respectively, of the filter cartridge assembly of FIG. 1A, whichillustrate a first flow path through the filter housing;

FIGS. 4A and 4B provide elevational view and cross-sectional views,respectively, of the filter cartridge assembly of FIG. 1A, whichillustrate a second flow path through the filter housing;

FIGS. 5A and 5B provide elevational view and cross-sectional views,respectively, of the filter cartridge assembly of FIG. 1A, whichillustrate a third flow path through the filter housing;

FIG. 6 provides an elevational view of the proximal end of the filtercartridge assembly of FIG. 1A, wherein the end cap and disc filter havebeen removed and the disc holder is exposed;

FIG. 7 provides an elevational view of the proximal end of the filtercartridge assembly of FIG. 1A, wherein the end cap, disc filter and discholder have been removed and the flow passages are exposed;

FIG. 8A is a partial cross-sectional view of the filter cartridgeassembly of FIG. 1A shown with the proximal end cap removed andillustrating the third flow path;

FIG. 8B is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 1A taken along cut line L-L in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 8C is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 1A taken along cut line P-P in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9A is a side elevational view of a filter cartridge assemblyconstructed in accordance with a second preferred embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 9B provides an elevational view of the proximal end of the filtercartridge assembly of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 9C provides a perspective view of the filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 9A;

FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the filter cartridge assemblyof FIG. 9A shown with parts separated for ease of illustration;

FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 9A which illustrates a first flow path through the filter housing;

FIG. 12A is an elevational view of the proximal end of the filtercartridge assembly of FIG. 9A;

FIG. 12B is a cross-sectional view of the filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 9A taken along cut line E-E of FIG. 12A, which illustrates a secondand a third flow path through the filter housing;

FIG. 13A is perspective view of a tri-flow filtration system which isconstructed in accordance with an embodiment of the present inventionand includes a controller/insufflator module and a filter cartridgeassembly;

FIG. 13B is a front elevational view of the tri-flow filtration systemof FIG. 13B;

FIG. 14 is a perspective of view of a socket assembly which is adaptedfor use with the tri-flow filtration system of FIGS. 13A and 13B;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge assembly, which hasbeen constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention, partially inserted into the socket of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a filter cartridge assembly, which hasbeen constructed in accordance with an embodiment of the presentinvention, fully inserted into the socket assembly of FIG. 14;

FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of a filter cartridge assembly fullyinserted into the socket assembly of FIG. 14;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of a filter cartridge assembly fullyinserted into the socket assembly of FIG. 14, which illustrates thefluid communication between the socket assembly and the filter cartridgeassembly;

FIG. 19 is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assemblyconstructed in accordance with a further aspect of the presentinvention;

FIG. 20 is a rear-top isometric view of the filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a right side elevational view of the filter cartridgeassembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a top view of the filter cartridge assembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 23 is a front view of the filter cartridge assembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 24 is a bottom view of the filter cartridge assembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 25 is a left side elevational view of the filter cartridge assemblyof FIG. 19;

FIG. 26 is a front-top exploded isometric view of the filter cartridgeassembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 27 is a rear-top exploded isometric view of the filter cartridgeassembly of FIG. 19;

FIG. 28 is perspective view of a further embodiment of a tri-flowfiltration system which is constructed in accordance with an embodimentof the present invention and includes a controller/insufflator moduleand a filter cartridge assembly;

FIG. 29 is a front elevational view of the tri-flow filtration system ofFIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 19 with an integral tube set therefor;

FIG. 31 is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 19 adapted with a connector for use with a separable tube set;

FIG. 32 is an isometric detail view of a filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 19 adapted with a connector for use with a separable tube set,illustrating a connecting bushing therefor;

FIG. 33 is a front elevational view of the bushing of FIG. 32; and

FIG. 34 is a bottom isometric view of the bushing of FIG. 32.

The advantages of filter cartridge assemblies and filtration systemsconstructed in accordance with the present invention will become morereadily apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art from thefollowing detailed description of certain preferred and exemplaryembodiments taken in conjunction with the drawings which set forthrepresentative embodiments thereof, but are not intended to limit thescope of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals identifysimilar structural elements of the subject invention, there isillustrated in FIGS. 1A-8C a filter cartridge constructed in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the present invention and designatedgenerally by reference numeral 100. Filter cartridge 100 includes anelongated housing 10 that has axially opposed proximal (P) and distal(D) ends and defines an interior cavity. As will be discussed in moredetail hereinbelow, first, second and third flow paths, 25, 35 and 45respectively, extend from the proximal end (P) of the housing to thedistal end (D). The flow paths are illustrated with flow arrows in FIGS.3B, 4B, 5B and 8A-8C.

Disposed within the interior cavity of filter cartridge 100 are first,second and third filter elements, 20, 30 and 40, respectively. The firstfilter element 20 conditions fluid that traverses the first flow path 25from a first inlet port 27 (referred to in FIGS. 3A and 3B as the“suction connection slot”) to a first outlet port 29 (referred to inFIG. 3B as the “suction/return connection port”). The second filterelement 30 conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path 35 froma second inlet port 37 (referred to in FIG. 4B as the “pressureconnection port at recirculation filtration pump”) to a second outletport 39 (referred to in FIG. 4A as the “pressure connection port”).Lastly, the third filter element conditions fluid that traverses thethird flow path 45 from a third inlet port 47 (referred to in FIG. 5B asthe “sense/insufflation connection port at recirculation filtrationpump”) to a third outlet port 49 (referred to in FIG. 5A as the“sense/insufflation connection port”). As best shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B and5B, the first flow path 25 is isolated from the second and third flowpaths, 35 and 45 respectively, and the second flow path 35 is isolatedfrom the third flow path 45.

As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3B, the first filter element 20 is a radiallypleated filter. Fluid is conditioned in the first flow path 25 bytraversing in a radially inward direction through the first filterelement 20. As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4B, the second filter element 30 isalso a radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the secondflow path 35 by traversing in a radially outward direction through thesecond filter element 30. Lastly, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 5A, the thirdfilter element 40 is disc filter and fluid is conditioned in the secondflow path 45 by traversing axially/proximally through the third filterelement 40.

FIG. 2 provides an exploded perspective view of filter cartridge 100. Asshown therein, housing 10 of the filter cartridge includes a main bodyportion 12, a proximal end cap 60 and a distal end cap 70. The main bodyportion 12 of the housing 10 partially defines the filter chambers forthe first and second filter elements, 20 and 30 (see FIG. 3B). The firstfilter element 20 is inserted into the main body portion 12 and contactsproximal end wall 18. An internal filter support structure 85 (FIG. 2)sandwiches the first filter element 20 within a first sealed filterchamber 22 (identified in FIGS. 3B and 4B as the “suction filterchamber”). The internal filter support structure 85 includes a firstpartition element 87 which abuts the first filter element 20 and acylindrical stem 89 which extends axially from the partition element 87.An O-ring 83 is positioned within a circumferential groove formed in thepartition element 87 and aids in fluidly isolating the first filterchamber 22 from the second filter chamber 32.

The second filter element 30 is positioned over the cylindrical stem 89of filter support structure 85 and a second partition element 90 is usedto seal the distal end of the second filter chamber 32 (identified inFIGS. 3B and 3A as “the pressure filter chamber”). The second partitionelement 90 has a cylindrical neck portion 92 into which the cylindricalstem 89 of the filter support structure 85 is inserted.

The third filter element 40 is supported within the housing 10 on a discholder 80. The third filter element 40 and the disc holder 80 arepositioned between the proximal end cap 60 and the proximal end wall 18of the main body portion 12 of housing 10.

As best shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B and 5B, the main body portion 12 ofhousing 10 includes a pair of coaxially positioned peripheral walls, 14(outer) and 16 (inner), which are integrally molded with the proximalend wall 18. As shown in these figure and to be discussed in detailhereinbelow, a portion of the second and third flow paths, 35 and 45,extend in a passage defined between the peripheral walls of the housing10.

Referring again to FIGS. 2, 3A, 4A and 5A, the proximal end (P) of thehousing 10 includes a connector element 50. The connector element 50houses the first inlet port 27 and the second and third outlet ports, 39and 49, respectively. The connector element 50 also includes a malethread 52, similar to a luer lock fitting, which allows the filtercartridge 100 to be fluidly engaged with a tube set, for example, havinga mating connector head. As best shown in FIGS. 3B, 4B and 5B, the firstoutlet port 29, the second inlet port 37 and third inlet port 47 arecoaxially arranged at the distal end (D) of the housing 10.

As best shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, the first flow path 25 extends fromthe first inlet port 27, a slotted hole formed in connector element 50,through an aperture 4 (see FIGS. 6 and 7) formed in the proximal endwall 18 of the main body portion 12 of housing 10 and into the firstfilter chamber 22. Then fluid in the first flow path 25 is distributedaround the circumference of the first filter element 20 and isconditioned by passing in a radially inward direction (see FIG. 8C)through the filter media to the central core of the filter element. Theconditioned fluid then travels distally from the central core of thefirst filer element 20 into the bore defined in the cylindrical stem 89of the filter support structure 85 and exits the filter housing 10through the first outlet port 29.

As best shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the second flow path 35 extends fromthe second inlet port 37 defined between the outer periphery of thecylindrical stem 89 of the filter support structure 85 and thecylindrical neck 92 of the second partition element 90 until it reachesthe central core of the second filter element 30. Then the fluid in thesecond flow path is conditioned by proceeding in a radially outwarddirection through the filter media of the second filter element 30 (seeFIG. 8B) and the conditioned fluid is supplied to an axial flow passage6 defined between the inner 16 and outer peripheral walls 14 of the mainbody portion 12 of housing 10. The axial flow passage 6 is also shown inFIG. 8B and identified as the “pressure filter passage thru filterhousing”. The conditioned fluid in axially flow passage 6 exits the mainbody portion 12 of the housing 10 through a flow aperture 8 formed inperipheral end wall 18 (see FIG. 6) and exits the proximal end (P) ofthe filter cartridge 100 through the second outlet port 39 formed inconnector 50.

As best shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, the third flow path 45 initiallyextends axially from the third inlet port 47, which is defined betweenthe outer periphery of the cylindrical neck 92 of the second partitionelement 90 and the cylindrical neck 72 of the end cap 70, to a planarchamber defined between the end cap 70 and the second partition element90. From this chamber the third flow path 45 proceeds radially outwardto a second axial flow passage 2 defined between the inner 16 and outer14 peripheral walls of the main body portion 12 of the housing 10. Thisaxial flow passage 2 is also illustrated in FIGS. 8B and 8C (identifiedas the “sense/insufflation filter passage thru filter housing”). Thefluid in the second axially flow passage 2 exits the main body portionof the housing through the peripheral end wall 18 and is supplied to atriangularly-shaped chamber 24 (see FIG. 7). From this chamber 24 thethird flow path 45 proceeds through an aperture 37 formed in the discholder 80 and through the third filter element 40, a disc filter. Theconditioned fluid then exits the housing 10 through the third outletport 49 formed in connector.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A-12B, there is illustrated a filter cartridgewhich has been constructed in accordance with a further preferredembodiment of the present invention and is designated generally byreference numeral 200. Filter cartridge 200 includes an elongatedhousing 110 that has axially opposed proximal (P) and distal (D) endsand defines an interior cavity. As will be discussed in more detailhereinbelow, first, second and third flow paths, 125, 135 and 145respectively, extend from the proximal end (P) of the housing to thedistal end (D). The flow paths are illustrated with flow arrows in FIGS.11, 12A and 12B.

Disposed within the interior cavity of filter cartridge 200 are first,second and third filter elements, 120, 130 and 140, respectively. Thefirst filter element 120 conditions fluid that traverses the first flowpath 125 from a first inlet port 127 (referred to in FIG. 11 as the“suction connection slot”) to a first outlet port 129. The second filterelement 130 conditions fluid that traverses the second flow path 135from a second inlet port 137 to a second outlet port 139 (referred to inFIG. 12B as the “pressure gas exit”). Lastly, the third filter elementconditions fluid that traverses the third flow path 145 from a thirdinlet port 147 to a third outlet port 149 (referred to in FIG. 12B asthe “insufflation gas exit”). As best shown in FIGS. 11, 12A and 12B,the first flow path 125 is isolated from the second and third flowpaths, 135 and 145 respectively, and the second flow path 135 isisolated from the third flow path 145.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first filter element 120 is a radiallypleated filter. Fluid is conditioned in the first flow path 125 bytraversing in a radially inward direction through the first filterelement 120. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12B, the second filter element 130is also a radially pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the secondflow path 135 by traversing in a radially outward direction through thesecond filter element 130. Lastly, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 12B, thethird filter element 140 is disc filter and fluid is conditioned in thesecond flow path 145 by traversing axially/proximally through the thirdfilter element 140.

Referring now to FIG. 10, which provides an exploded perspective view offilter cartridge 200. As shown therein, housing 110 of the filtercartridge 200 includes an exterior body portion 112 and a proximal endcap 160. Unlike filter cartridge 100 which utilizes a double-walledhousing 10 and a distal end cap 70, housing 110 for cartridge 200 has asingle-walled exterior body portion 112 and first and second interiorchamber segments, 154 and 156, respectively. The first and secondinterior chamber segments 154/156 of the housing 110 partially definethe filter chambers for the first and second filter elements, 120/130.

The second interior chamber segment 156 includes a cylindrical neckportion 192 (FIG. 9A) which is inserted into the proximal end (P) of theexterior body portion 112 of the housing 110 until the neck portion 192extends though the aperture formed in the distal end of the exteriorbody portion 112. The second filter element 130 is disposed within thesecond interior chamber segment and a second filter chamber 132 isestablished by inserting a cylindrical stem 189 associated with thefirst interior chamber segment 154 through the center of the secondfilter element 130 and into the bore of cylindrical neck portion 192.The first filter element 120 is contained within an interior cavitydefined by the first interior chamber segment 154 and the first filterchamber 122 is established by sealing off the proximal end of theexterior body portion 112 using the disc holder 150 (see FIG. 10) andthe proximal end cap 160. The third filter element 140 is supported inhousing 112 by a disc holder 150, which includes an upper half 150a anda lower half 150b.

As best shown in FIG. 9C, the exterior body portion of the housing 110includes two longitudinal ribs 158a/158b that are spaced approximately90 degrees apart. The ribs 158a/158b are used to create longitudinalchannels or passageways between the inner wall of the exterior bodyportion 112 and the outer surfaces of the first and second interiorchamber segments 154/156. As shown in this figure and to be discussed indetail hereinbelow, a portion of the second and third flow paths, 135and 145, extend in the longitudinal channels defined between theinterior chamber segments and the exterior body portion of the housing.

Referring now to FIGS. 9A, 9B 11, 12A and 12B, the proximal end (P) ofthe housing 110 includes a connector element 150. The connector element150 houses the first inlet port 127 and the second and third outletports, 139 and 149, respectively. The connector element 150 alsoincludes a male thread 152, similar to a luer lock fitting, which allowsthe filter cartridge 200 to be fluidly engaged with a tube set, forexample, having a mating connector head. As best shown in FIGS. 9A, 11and 12B, the first outlet port 129, the second inlet port 137 and thirdinlet port 147 are coaxially arranged at the distal end (D) of thehousing 110.

As best shown in FIG. 11, the first flow path 125 extends from the firstinlet port 127, a slotted hole formed in connector element 150positioned, through a passage 104 (see FIG. 10) formed in the upper andlower disc holder halves 150a/150b and into the first filter chamber122. Then fluid in the first flow path 125 is distributed around thecircumference of the first filter element 120 and is conditioned bypassing in a radially inward direction (see FIG. 11) through the filtermedia into the central core of the first filter element 120. Theconditioned fluid then travels distally from the central core of thefirst filer element 120 into the bore defined in the cylindrical stem189 of the first interior chamber segment 154 and exits the filterhousing 110 through the first outlet port 129. (FIG. 11)

As best shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the second flow path 135 extendsfrom the second inlet port 137 defined between the outer periphery ofthe cylindrical stem 189 of the first interior segment 154 and thecylindrical neck 192 of the second interior chamber segment 156 until itreaches the central core of the second filter element 130. Then thefluid in the second flow path 135 is conditioned by proceeding in aradially outward direction through the filter media of the second filterelement 130 and the conditioned fluid is supplied through side aperture102 (see FIG. 10) formed in the second interior chamber segment 156 toan axial flow passage 106 defined between rib 158b of the exterior bodyportion 112 and the outer peripheral walls of the first and secondinterior chamber segments 154/156. The conditioned fluid in axially flowpassage 106 exits into a radially oriented channel 197 (see FIG. 12A)formed in the proximal end cap 160 and exits the proximal end (P) of thefilter cartridge 200 through the second outlet port 139 formed inconnector 150.

As best shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the third flow path 145 initiallyextends axially from the third inlet port 147, which is defined betweenthe outer periphery of the cylindrical neck 192 of the second interiorchamber segment 156 and the cylindrical neck 172 of exterior bodyportion 112 of housing 110, to a radially directed channel formedbetween rib 158a and the exterior surface of the second interior chambersegment 156. Fluid in the third flow path 145 is then supplied to asecond axial flow passage 126 defined between rib 158a of the exteriorbody portion 112 and the outer peripheral walls of the first and secondinterior chamber segments 154/156. (FIG. 10) The fluid in the secondaxially flow passage 126 is directed through side aperture 172 (see FIG.10) into the third filter chamber 142 defined by the upper and lowerdisc holder halves 150a/150b. Once in the third filter chamber 142 thefluid is conditioned by passing axially through the third filter element140, a disc filter. The conditioned fluid is supplied to a wedge-shapedchamber 124 (see FIG. 12A) formed on the underside of the proximal endcap 160 and exits the housing 110 through the third outlet port 149formed in connector 150.

Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the presentinvention is not limited to particular type of filter type or media,such as a radially pleated filter element. For example, a resin bondedcellulose type filter can be used or a fiberous media for filteringpathogenic microorganisms, such as bacteria, carbon block filter media,spiral wound media.

Referring now to FIGS. 13A-17, there is illustrated a filtration systemwhich has been constructed in accordance with a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention and is designated generally by reference numeral300. As will be described hereinbelow, filtration system 300 is adaptedand configured for conditioning fluid received from three distinct fluidsources and for use in conjunction with the surgical trocar disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/960,701 and International PatentApplication Publication No. WO 2008/077080, published on Jun. 26, 2008,which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

Filtration system 300 includes, among other elements, a controller 310,a socket assembly 330 and the previously described filter cartridgeassembly 100. As will be discussed in detail below, controller 310includes mechanisms for regulating and monitoring fluid flow infiltration system 300.

The controller 310 has an outer housing 312 with planar upper and lowersurfaces 314 and 316 respectively, and curved side walls 318a/318b. Theside walls 318a/318b each include finger recesses 320a (opposite side,not shown)/320b for moving or manipulating the controller 310. Theplanar lower surface 316 allows the controller 310 to be placed on autility cart or supported from the overhead of the operating room usinga boom mechanism.

The front face 322 of controller 310 includes an analog gage 324, a dial326, a power button 328 and a jack 329. The purpose and operation ofthese elements will be described hereinbelow. An elongated receptacle340 or bore is formed in the housing 312 for the controller 310 andextends into the controller 310 from its front face 322. The receptacle340 is adapted and configured for receiving the socket assembly 330 (seeFIGS. 14-17). Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate thatrather than an analog gage, a digital gage can be used and thecontroller can be equipped with additional dials, gages and readoutdevices.

Referring now to FIGS. 14-17, the socket assembly 330 functions as anadapter for releasably retaining the filter cartridge 100 in fluidcommunication with the controller 310. The socket assembly 330 includesa main body portion 332 which defines a central bore 334 into which thefilter cartridge assembly 100 is inserted. A locking element 336 and amounting ring 338 are positioned at the proximal end of the socketassembly 330. The mounting ring 338 has a plurality of holes formed inits periphery for fastening the socket assembly 330 to the controller310.

The locking element 336 of the socket assembly 330 includes a cammechanism which has a cam ring 342 with a lever arm 344 extendingradially outward from its outer circumference. The lever arm 344 is usedto rotate the cam ring 342 with respect to the main body portion 332 ofthe socket assembly 330. The cam ring 342 includes four axial slots 346each of which terminates in pitched camming channels 348 (two shown inFIG. 14).

As shown in FIG. 2, the main body portion 12 of the housing 10 of filtercartridge assembly 100 has 4 radially-spaced apart cam lugs 62 and analignment rib 64 formed on its outer periphery. Those skilled in the artwill readily appreciate that the present invention is not limited to anyparticular number or orientation of cam lugs.

As shown in FIG. 15, when filter cartridge assembly 100 is inserted intothe central bore 334 of the socket assembly 330 each alignment rib 64must be oriented such that it can be received into a respective matingchannel 350 (identified from the exterior) formed in the main bodyportion 332 of the socket assembly 330 (see FIG. 15). Moreover, thecamming lugs 62 must each pass through the axial slots 346 of the camring 342 and into respective pitched camming channels 348. When the camring 342 is rotated with respect to the filter cartridge assembly 100,by rotating lever arm 344 as shown in FIGS. 13A and 13B (see directionalarrow 352), the camming lugs 62 formed on the outer periphery of housing12 are trapped in the pitched camming channels 348 and the filtercartridge assembly 100 is forced further into the central bore 334 ofthe socket assembly 330 and secured in fluid communication with thecontroller 310. (See FIGS. 16 and 17).

As shown in FIG. 18, fluid in the first flow path exits the filterassembly 100 along the central axis and passes through an axial portformed in socket assembly 330. Fluid is supplied to the second and thirdflow paths in the filter assembly through radially directed ports formedin the socket assembly 330.

In operation controller 310 can include an insufflation unit and beconnected to surgical trocar, similar to that disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/960,701 and International Patent ApplicationPublication No. WO 2008/077080, published on Jun. 26, 2008. The trocarcan be connected to the controller 310 by way of fluid conduits or atube set (not shown). In the embodiment disclosed herein, the controllerdoes not include an insufflator but receives insufflation gas from aninsufflator through jack 329. The insufflator would receive the gasfrom, for example, a supply tank and a pressure regulator would normallybe provided between the tank and the insufflator.

The operation of the controller is described in detail in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 11/960,701 and International Patent ApplicationPublication No. WO 2008/077080, published on Jun. 26, 2008, and will notbe repeated herein. As noted in these references, the system forsurgical insufflation and recirculation disclosed therein requires thefiltering of three separate fluid sources. The controller 310 can beutilized with any embodiments of the systems described theseapplication. As illustrated in FIGS. 13A and 13B, controller 310includes a settable dial 326 for setting the desired pressure outputfrom the controller, and a pressure gauge 324 for confirming the setpressure.

As illustrated, the filter cartridge assembly 100 mounts directly to thecontrol unit 310, such that a low profile is presented. In such aconfiguration, the first flow path 25 of the filter cartridge assembly100 would be used to filter gas being removed from the abdomen patient(suction line) or for the removal of spent insufflation fluid. Thesecond flow path 35 of filter cartridge assembly 100 would be used forconditioning the pressured gas being provided to the trocar for use insealing the lumen used to pass instruments and the like through thetrocar. The third flow path 45 of filter cartridge assembly 100 would beused to condition the pressurized gas used for insufflation and sensing.

FIGS. 19-27 illustrate a filter cartridge assembly 1900 constructed inaccordance with a further aspect of the present invention. As withforegoing embodiments, the filter cartridge assembly includes aplurality of filter elements for filtering a plurality of fluid flowpaths. Differences are provided in the shape of the housing 1920, flowpaths formed therewithin, and other features. However, with the filter1900, features similar to those of the filter cartridge 100 areillustrated and not necessarily described explicitly.

As best seen in FIGS. 19 and 20, the filter cartridge 1900 includes aconnection 1950 for a tube set, a front end cap 1910, housing 1920 andrear end cap 1990. In the rear end cap 1990 are defined ports forconnection with a recirculation unit. One port 1953 is for supplypressure from the unit, through the filter cartridge 1900, one port 1957is for insufflation and pressure sensing through the cartridge 1900, andone port 1955 is for return from the cartridge into the unit.

In the exploded views of FIGS. 26 and 27, the parts that can be seen,and the function thereof, are as follows. The front end cap 1910distributes flow from the connection 1950 thereon. Recirculation flowgoes from a tube set, through the lower wide port of the connector 1950,and into a chamber defined between the front plate 1910 and a separatingplate 1973, which helps hold fluid and prevent it from reaching therecirculation filter 1981, which is a horizontal pleated filter, shapedas a cylinder. The filter 1981 is held off the bottom of its chamber1922 in the housing 1920 by a tapered ring, which has a substantiallytriangular cross-section, the small end of which abuts a central wall1924 in the housing 1920. Return flow passes through the filter 1981 andthrough a channel 1926 in the housing, through another passage in therear end plate 1990, and to the respective port 1955.

Insufflation pressure passes from its port 1957, into a chamber definedby rear housing portion 1995 in the rear end plate 1990, through a flatfilter 1985, into a channel 1921 defined in the housing 1920, into achannel 1911 formed in the front end cap, and through a respective porton the connector 1950.

Pressure from the unit flows through its designated port 1953, into arear chamber defined for the pressure filter 1983 by the housing 1920and the end plate 1990. A ring 1977 is also provided to hold the filteroff of the dividing wall 1924. A channel 1929 then carries the pressurethrough the housing 1920, into the front end cap 1910, where a channel1919 directs the flow through the connector 1950.

The filters 1983 and 1981 are preferably sealed against the housing 1920by an adhesive. Grooves and matching ridges can be provided betweenadjoining housing sections, such can be adhered by an adhesive or byother suitable means, such as ultrasonic welding. In accordance with theinvention, the filter 1900 can be configured such that channels formedin the wall of the housing 1920, such as channels 1921, 1929, and anoffset arrangement of the pleated filter elements 1981, 1983 result in ahousing cross-section that is not circular but has lobular portions incross-section, corresponding to such channels.

FIG. 28-29 illustrate a further embodiment of a tri-flow filtrationsystem 2800 which is constructed in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention and includes a controller/insufflator module and afilter cartridge assembly 1900. The system 2800 includes a digitalreadout 2824, but otherwise includes features similar to the embodimentof FIGS. 13A and 13B.

FIG. 30 is a front-top isometric view of a filter cartridge assembly ofFIG. 19 with an integral tube set 3010 therefor. A bushing 3090 isprovided for connecting the tri-lumen tube of the tube set 3010 to thefilter housing 1900. A detachable connection 3140 can alternatively beprovided. The bushing 3090, as illustrated in FIGS. 33 and 34, includesan interior contour 3093 matching the tube substantially, and an outertaper 3094 for interfacing with the connection 1950, and facilitating acompression fitting of the tube set 3010 and the filter 1900. Adhesivecan be used to facilitate a seal therebetween.

What is claimed is:
 1. A filter cartridge assembly comprising: i) anelongated housing having axially opposed proximal and distal ends, thehousing defining an interior cavity, a central axis and first, secondand third flow paths which extend from the proximal end of the housingto the distal end, wherein the housing includes a pair of coaxiallypositioned peripheral walls of the housing; ii) a first pleated filterelement disposed along the central axis and within the interior cavityof the housing for conditioning fluid traversing the first flow pathfrom a first inlet port to a first outlet port; iii) a second pleatedfilter element disposed along the central axis and within the interiorcavity of the housing for conditioning fluid traversing the second flowpath from a second inlet port to a second outlet port; and iv) a thirdnon-pleated filter element disposed along the central axis and withinthe interior cavity of the housing for conditioning fluid traversing thethird flow path from a third inlet port to a third outlet port; andwherein the first flow path is isolated from the second and third flowpaths and the second flow path is isolated from the third flow path. 2.A filter cartridge assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein a portion ofeach of the second and third flow paths traverse axially between theperipheral walls of the housing.
 3. A filter cartridge assembly asrecited in claim 1, wherein the first filter element is radially ahorizontally pleated filter and fluid is conditioned in the first flowpath by traversing in a radially inward direction through the firstfilter element.
 4. A filter cartridge assembly as recited in claim 1,wherein the second filter element is radially a horizontally pleatedfilter and fluid is conditioned in the second flow path by traversing ina radially outward direction through the second filter element.
 5. Afilter cartridge assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the thirdfilter element is disc a flat filter and fluid is conditioned in thesecond flow path by traversing axially through the third filter element.6. A filter cartridge assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein thehousing includes two longitudinal ribs which define two longitudinalchannels in the interior cavity of the housing and the second flow pathtraverse one of the channels and the third flow path traverses the otherchannel.
 7. A filter cartridge assembly as recited in claim 1, whereinthe proximal end of the housing includes a connector element for atri-lumen tube set.
 8. A filter cartridge assembly as recited in claim7, wherein the connector element includes the first inlet port and thesecond and third outlet ports.
 9. A filter cartridge assembly as recitedin claim 1, wherein the housing includes a cylindrical inner housingelement positioned within the interior cavity of the housing and forminga first chamber for the first filter element.
 10. A filter cartridgeassembly as recited in claim 9, wherein the housing further includes asecond inner housing element positioned within the interior cavity ofthe housing and forming a second chamber for the second filter element.11. A filter cartridge assembly as recited in claim 1, wherein the firstoutlet port, the second inlet port and third inlet port are located atthe distal end of the housing.
 12. A filter cartridge assembly asrecited in claim 11, wherein the first outlet port, the second inletport and the third inlet port are coaxially arranged.
 13. A filtercartridge assembly comprising: i) an elongated housing having axiallyopposed proximal and distal ends, the housing defining first, second andthird filter chambers and first, second and third flow paths whichextend from the proximal end of the housing to the distal end; ii) afirst filter element disposed within the first filter chamber of thehousing for conditioning fluid traversing the first flow path from afirst inlet port to a first outlet port; iii) a second filter elementdisposed within the second filter chamber of the housing forconditioning fluid traversing the second flow path from a second inletport to a second outlet port; and iv) a third filter element disposedwithin the third filter chamber of the housing for conditioning fluidtraversing the third flow path from a third inlet port to a third outletport; and wherein the first flow path is isolated from the second andthird flow paths and the second flow path is isolated from the thirdflow path wherein the first outlet port, the second inlet port and thirdinlet port are located at the distal end of the housing.
 14. Afiltration system for conditioning fluid received from three distinctfluid sources, comprising: i) a controller including means forregulating and monitoring fluid flow in the filtration system, thecontroller defining an elongated receptacle; ii) a socket assemblypositioned at least partially within the elongated receptacle defined bythe controller, the socket assembly including a locking element; andiii) a filter cartridge assembly inserted into the socket assembly andsecured in fluid communication with the controller by the lockingelement.
 15. A filtration system as recited in claim 14, wherein thelocking element includes a cam mechanism for engaging a lug extendingfrom an exterior surface of the filter cartridge assembly.
 16. Afiltration system as recited in claim 14, wherein the filter cartridgeassembly includes: i) an elongated housing having axially opposedproximal and distal ends, the housing defining an interior cavity andfirst, second and third flow paths which extend from the proximal end ofthe housing to the distal end; ii) a first filter element disposedwithin the interior cavity of the housing for conditioning fluidtraversing the first flow path from a first inlet port to a first outletport; iii) a second filter element disposed within the interior cavityof the housing for conditioning fluid traversing the second flow pathfrom a second inlet port to a second outlet port; and iv) a third filterelement disposed within the interior cavity of the housing forconditioning fluid traversing the third flow path from a third inletport to a third outlet port; and wherein the first flow path is isolatedfrom the second and third flow paths and the second flow path isisolated from the third flow path.